The Edo State Government has initiated an emergency public health response to contain a recent outbreak of diphtheria in parts of the state.
Governor Monday Okpebholo in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said his administration has deployed all necessary resources to address the outbreak and protect residents.
Mr Okpebholo is personally overseeing surveillance and monitoring activities, working in close coordination with the State Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure a rapid and effective containment strategy.
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Key measures underway include the procurement of life-saving vaccines for an immediate, state-wide vaccination campaign, with a particular focus on children and other vulnerable groups.
The government has also intensified public sensitisation through radio, television, community outreach, and social media to raise awareness about the symptoms of diphtheria and the importance of early treatment.
Hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert and instructed to prioritise case detection, isolation, and appropriate clinical management in line with national and international guidelines.
Health workers are being briefed and equipped to respond swiftly, while disease surveillance efforts have been expanded to trace and monitor contacts of confirmed or suspected cases.
The Commissioner for Health, Cyril Oshiomhole, is leading the medical response team and working closely with the state’s emergency health task force to curb the spread of the disease.
As part of a proactive community-centred approach, school owners and administrators are collaborating with the government to establish early warning systems, enforce hygiene protocols, and conduct health screenings in schools.
Mr Okpebholo has also convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting involving representatives of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organisation (WHO), traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and community development groups to coordinate the response and enhance its effectiveness.
He urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, assuring the public that the outbreak is under control.
Citizens are advised to report symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, or difficulty breathing to the nearest healthcare facility.
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Residents are also encouraged to cooperate fully with health officials and participate in the ongoing vaccination and awareness campaigns.
“Edo State remains committed to safeguarding public health and will leave no stone unturned in bringing this outbreak to an end,” the statement said.
